25 Elegant Medium-Length Formal Hairstyles for Any Special Event

When it comes to medium length hair, finding a formal style that’s elegant yet effortless can feel like a challenge. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, gala, or any special occasion, the right hairstyle can make all the difference. Medium-length hair offers the perfect balance of versatility and sophistication, allowing you to create styles that are polished without being overly intricate.

From sleek updos that highlight your facial features to soft waves that add a touch of romance, there are countless options to consider. One tip to keep in mind: opt for hairstyles that work with your hair’s natural texture, as this will make the styling process smoother and help your look last longer. Ready to find a style that suits you? Explore all the ideas and discover the perfect formal look for your medium length hair!

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#1 Romantic Half-Up Style with Loose Curls and Pearl Pin

This romantic half-up hairstyle features loose curls that add soft movement to medium-length hair. The gentle twists at the crown create a beautiful frame for the delicate pearl and crystal hairpin, which adds an elegant touch. This look works best for fine to medium hair types, enhancing volume without overwhelming the face. It may require some texturizing spray for added hold and definition, especially if your hair is naturally straight.

#2 Soft Waves with Side Part for Medium-Length Hair

This medium-length hairstyle features soft waves that gently cascade from a deep side part, creating a romantic and effortless look. Ideal for those with fine to medium hair density, the side part adds volume and asymmetry, flattering round and oval face shapes. However, maintaining these loose waves requires a curling iron and light hold products. Perfect for formal events, this style exudes natural elegance while being easy to manage.

#3 Twisted Low Bun Wedding Hairstyle with Pearl Hairpiece

This twisted low bun is an ideal wedding hairstyle, combining structure with intricate detailing. The hair is neatly twisted into a low bun and accented with a pearl and crystal hairpiece, adding a refined touch perfect for the big day. This style works well for medium to thick hair, providing a secure yet stylish look that will hold up throughout the ceremony and reception. Use bobby pins and hairspray to ensure everything stays in place.

#4 Soft Half-Up Style for Blonde Hair with Waves

This soft half-up style is ideal for showcasing blonde hair with natural waves. The top section is gently twisted and secured with a pearl hairpin, adding a touch of detail while allowing the loose waves to flow freely. This look is perfect for fine to medium hair types and suits both casual and formal settings. To keep the waves defined, use a light texturizing spray, and secure the half-up section with pins for extra hold.

#5 Voluminous Side Braid with Twists

This voluminous side braid is a stunning choice for medium-long hair, combining soft twists at the crown with a chunky, textured braid. The added volume makes it ideal for fine to medium hair, creating a fuller appearance while keeping hair neatly styled to the side. This braid is perfect for casual outings or special events, offering a stylish yet relaxed look. To enhance the volume and keep the braid secure, use a texturizing spray and gentle teasing at the roots.

#6 Twisted Half-Up Style for Brown Hair with Pearl Hairpin

This twisted half-up style is perfect for showcasing brown hair, adding dimension with soft waves and a subtle twist. The hairstyle is adorned with a pearl and crystal hairpin, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Ideal for medium to thick hair, this look offers a polished yet relaxed vibe. To keep the twists secure, use a light-hold hairspray, ensuring the style lasts throughout the day.

#7 Textured Low Bun for Fine Hair with Soft Twists

This textured low bun is a beautiful option for fine hair, offering volume and intricate detail. The soft twists add depth, while the loose bun creates a fuller appearance, making it ideal for those with thinner hair. Accented with delicate pearls, this style is perfect for formal occasions, providing a refined yet voluminous look. To keep the twists and bun secure, use bobby pins and a light mist of hairspray.

#8 Soft Braided Updo with Loose Strands

This soft braided updo for medium hair offers a relaxed yet polished look, perfect for everyday wear or casual events. The braid starts at the front and wraps around to meet a low bun at the back, while loose strands around the face add a gentle, effortless touch. Ideal for fine to medium hair, this style keeps hair neatly in place without feeling too formal. It’s a versatile option that works well with natural textures and minimal styling products.

#9 Glamorous Wavy Hairstyle with a Middle Part

This glamorous wavy hairstyle, featuring a middle part, is perfect for making a statement at any event. The soft waves add volume and a luxurious texture, complementing heart and oval-shaped faces. Best suited for medium to thick hair, this style enhances natural body and movement. While it’s stunning for formal occasions, maintaining the waves might require a curling iron and a light-hold spray, especially if your hair is naturally straight or fine.

#10 Modern French Twist Updo for Special Occasions

This modern French twist updo offers a sophisticated style for special occasions, ideal for medium to thick hair. The twist is neatly rolled and pinned, creating a structured look that holds well throughout the day. It’s perfect for adding height and volume at the crown, while the gentle texture gives it a contemporary edge. For added hold, use bobby pins and a light mist of hairspray to keep the twist in place.

#11 Low Twisted Bun for Thick Hair with Soft Texture

This low twisted bun is a great option for those with thick hair, providing a structured yet soft look that holds its shape beautifully. The multiple twists add dimension and volume, making it ideal for medium hair lengths. This style is perfect for formal events, offering a refined and polished finish. To keep the bun secure, use strong pins and a light mist of hairspray, especially if your hair tends to be heavy.

#12 Simple Half-Up Hairstyle with Soft Curls and Hairpin

This simple half-up hairstyle is an elegant choice for medium-length hair, featuring soft curls that add texture and movement. The hair is gently pulled back and secured with a delicate, jeweled hairpin, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions. This look works well for fine to medium hair types, providing a polished finish without much effort. A light-hold hairspray can help keep the style in place while maintaining the natural flow of the curls.

#13 Sleek Low Ponytail with a Wrapped Hair Tie

This sleek low ponytail is a chic and professional hairstyle, perfect for medium hair. The hair is neatly gathered at the nape and secured with a wrapped section of hair, creating a polished and seamless finish. This look is ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair and is versatile enough for both office settings and formal occasions. To maintain its smooth appearance, use a shine-enhancing serum and a fine-tooth comb during styling.

#14 Fancy Easy Updo with Pearl Hair Accessory

This fancy easy updo is perfect for formal occasions, featuring a smooth, twisted bun adorned with a delicate pearl hair accessory. Ideal for medium to thick hair, this style creates a sophisticated look without requiring extensive styling. The soft twists add dimension and interest, while the pearl accents provide a touch of refinement. It’s a versatile updo that can be achieved quickly, making it a great option for busy mornings or last-minute events.

#15 Romantic Updo with Loose Waves for Thin Hair

This romantic updo with loose waves is an ideal choice for those with thin hair. The soft waves add volume and texture, while the loosely pinned sections create a delicate, airy feel. A small floral accent enhances the overall look, making it perfect for weddings or special occasions. This style works well for medium-length hair and can be easily achieved with some curling and a light-hold hairspray to maintain the waves and updo throughout the event.

#16 Voluminous Messy Bun with Soft Twists

This voluminous messy bun is perfect for creating a stylish, effortless look with added texture. The soft twists and loose strands give the bun a full, voluminous appearance, making it an excellent choice for medium to thick hair. Ideal for both casual and semi-formal occasions, this style offers a balance of structure and relaxed charm. To keep the bun in place, use bobby pins and a light-hold hairspray, ensuring it stays secure without losing its natural, tousled feel.

#17 Twisted Half-Up Hairstyle for Shoulder-Length Hair

This twisted half-up hairstyle is a beautiful choice for shoulder-length hair. The soft waves add texture and dimension, while the twisted sections pulled back create an effortless, romantic look. Ideal for fine to medium hair types, this style works well for casual events or more formal occasions. It helps keep hair away from the face while still showcasing the length and natural movement. Consider using a light-hold spray to keep the twists secure without sacrificing the softness of the waves.

#18 Soft Waves for Medium-Length Hair on Round Faces

This medium-length hairstyle with soft waves is an excellent choice for round faces. The waves add gentle movement and dimension, while the side part helps elongate the face, creating a flattering balance. Ideal for fine to medium hair, this look enhances natural volume without adding excessive width to the face. It’s a versatile style that’s easy to maintain and suits both casual and formal settings, making it a great everyday option.

#19 Elegant Half-Up Down Hairstyle with Soft Curls

This elegant half-up down hairstyle is perfect for medium-length hair, featuring soft, loose curls that create a romantic and effortless look. The hair is gently pulled back and secured with a delicate hairpin, allowing the curls to flow naturally. This style works well for fine to medium hair types, adding volume and movement. However, if your hair is naturally straight, you might need a curling iron and some holding spray to maintain the curls throughout the day.

#20 Sleek Classy Bun with Elegant Hairpin for Medium Hair

This sleek and classy bun is an excellent choice for medium-length hair, offering a timeless and polished look. The hair is smoothly twisted into a low bun, secured with a delicate, jeweled hairpin that adds a touch of sophistication. This style is ideal for fine to medium hair types and works particularly well with straight or slightly wavy textures. While it’s perfect for formal events, it may require some pins and hairspray to ensure everything stays in place.

#21 Soft Updo with Face-Framing Bangs and Loose Waves

This soft updo, featuring face-framing bangs, is a perfect choice for medium-length hair. The loosely pinned waves add a touch of elegance while the bangs create a flattering frame around the face. This look works best for those with fine to medium hair, enhancing volume without overwhelming the face. However, it may require touch-ups throughout the day to maintain the shape of the bangs, especially if you have naturally curly or frizzy hair.

#22 Half-Up Prom Hairstyle with Loose Waves and Floral Hairpin

This half-up prom hairstyle features loose waves and a delicate floral hairpin, perfect for adding a touch of charm to your look. The style keeps the hair off the face while allowing the natural waves to flow, making it ideal for medium hair. It’s a great option for those who want a balance of structure and movement. To maintain the waves and keep the hairpin secure, use a light-hold hairspray.

#23 Voluminous Curly Updo for Formal Events

This voluminous curly updo is perfect for medium to thick hair, providing a glamorous and full-bodied look for formal occasions. The curls are intricately pinned into a low bun, creating a soft and romantic silhouette that complements a variety of face shapes. While this style offers great texture and depth, it can be time-consuming to achieve and maintain, especially for those with naturally straight hair. Consider adding a strong hold hairspray to keep curls in place.

#24 Sleek Half-Up Style for Straight Medium-Length Hair

This sleek half-up hairstyle is ideal for those with medium-length, straight hair. The hair is smoothly pulled back and secured with a delicate pearl and crystal pin, creating a polished and refined look. This style is perfect for showcasing healthy, shiny hair and works well for fine to medium hair types. However, if your hair is naturally thick or textured, you may need a flat iron to achieve the same sleek finish.

#25 Elegant Half-Up, Half-Down Curls with Delicate Floral Accessory

This half-up, half-down style is perfect for medium-length hair, combining loose curls with a subtle twist. The hair is softly pinned at the back, allowing the intricate curls to cascade naturally. A delicate floral accessory adds a touch of charm, making this look ideal for formal occasions. It’s best suited for those with fine to medium hair density, as the curls add volume and movement. However, it may require extra hold for thicker hair types to stay in place.